Commits to raise awareness around pediatric cardiology even as it raises funds
India CSR Network
NEW DELHI: After facilitating the medical treatment for more than 1000 plus critically ill, under-privileged children Genesis Foundation (GF) is now ready to enter the next phase, where the core focus will be congenital heart disorder. Today, Genesis Foundation announced its focussed and deeper commitment to ‘Save Little Hearts’ with a formal change in its new branding and logo.
After providing support forseveral years in the areas of Heart, Cancer and Thalassemia, we realised that 70% of the cases it was supporting were for Heart Disorder. Not only is it one of the most common ailments in kids, it is an area that desperately needs attention and is sorely missing awareness, resources, and support.
Every year, more than 200,000 children are born with congenital heart disease in India and 30% need surgery in the first year or else they will not see their first birthday. It is also the most commonly missed birth defect during in-utero evaluation by ultrasound. However, this is also the ailment that has the over 98% chance of success when we provide timely and correct medical intervention. The child can go back to normal life and get a fighting chance to be able to fulfil his or her potential.
The treatment of Heart Disorder requires a large amount of money but there is a limited support from the government. GF will also be working towards creating awareness regarding prevention from congenital birth effect as well as early screening, timely treatment and post-treatment care.
Speaking on the launch of the new brand logo Prema Sagar, Founder Trustee, Genesis Foundation, said “Thanks to our Genesis Foundation family, and our supporters – we have till date been able to support treatment of over 1000 children who have suffered from life-threatening ailments – specifically, Heart Disorder, Cancer and Thalassemia. We are humbled that we have been able to make a difference and give these families who see hardship every day a reason to smile – to see their little ones get the treatment they rightly deserve. Now, we are excited to announce that our work will move forward with a focus only on Heart Disorder as we build new hopes and goals to Save Little Hearts. There are too many children suffering from congenital heart disease, and no resources for their treatment. Getting the right medical intervention early in this illness grants a high rate of survival and living a healthy life.”
Jyoti Sagar, Founder Trustee, Genesis Foundation, added- “As the new year has begun, a new direction within our Foundation has emerged. We are excited to embark on a new mission for the many little hearts in this country who need a chance to live. Our hearts are filled with joy that in all these years we have been able to make a difference to the lives of children who have suffered from Heart Disorders but also Cancer and Thalassemia – but having one area of focus where there is a dire need is key. We look forward to this next phase of our journey as we share our love for life with these little ones and their families.”
Dr Krishna Kumar, Clinical Professor and Head, Paediatric Cardiology, Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre, Kochi, said “Caring for sick children with heart disease can be both quite challenging and very rewarding at the same time. The “Save Little Hearts” programme initiated by Genesis Foundation supports surgery for children with heart defects from economically challenged backgrounds. The unique aspect of the programme is their willingness to support the most difficult challenges that include emergency operations in new-borns with complex heart defects.”
Dr Kulbhushan Singh Dagar, Director Neonatal & Congenital Heart Surgery, Max Super Speciality Hospital, “Many children with pediatric cardiac conditions belong to the under-privileged segments of society. These disorders are usually diagnosed immediately after birth, but the cost of surgery and intervention makes many parents shy away from getting their child treated. Sadly, most health insurance doesn’t cover congenital disorders. These disorders require urgent and early interventions to achieve optimal results, but the biggest advantage is that once cardiac defects are corrected, the patient has a very good chance of integrating back into society and leading a normal healthy life like others. With a one-time contribution of Rs. 2.5 to 3 lakhs towards heart surgery, most of these children can be given a new lease of life and be allowed to grow andcontribute ably to the society.”
So far, Genesis Foundation has supported medical treatment of over 1000 critically ill children. The children supported by the Foundation belong to families with an income of less than Rs. 10,000 per month and the parents are unable to afford treatment of these children suffering from serious life-threatening ailments. Genesis Foundation also organises annual events ‘Kasauli Rhythm & Blues Festival’ and ‘CEOs Sing for GF Kids’ to raise funding for the necessary treatments.
Genesis Foundation facilitates medical treatment for critically ill under-privileged children suffering with Heart Disorder. The support required in the said critical illness varies from specific surgeries (including neonatal), Cath Lab Interventions along with recovery and recuperation post surgery.
We Save Little Hearts
So far, we have supported medical treatment of over 1000 critically ill children. The children supported by the Foundation belong to families with an income of less than Rs. 10,000 per month and the parents and caregivers are unable to afford treatment of these children who suffer from a serious life-threatening ailment.
100% of funds raised are used towards treatment of critically ill children as all overhead costs are borne by the founder trustees.
